The concept was first tested during the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup, when a small group of broadcasters from Filipino, Italian, Uruguayan and Indian communities collaborated on a multilingual sports segment.
That successful trial laid the foundation for a permanent newsroom, with funding from the Community Broadcasting Foundation and support from the Community Media Training Organisation.
Participants received professional training from ABC Deputy Editor Amanda Shalala. The program covered key aspects of sports journalism, such as writing bulletins, producing current affairs segments and attending press conferences with major organisations.
Camille Punzalan, one of the newsroom’s emerging broadcasters, said she was motivated by a desire to see greater representation. “I am a woman. I am multicultural. And I want to see more of us out there,” she said.
Her comments reflect the inclusive spirit of the program, which aims to prepare broadcasters for major events such as the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games.
The newsroom’s flagship program, ‘Sports Vibe’, airs every Friday at 9.00 am on 98.1 FM. Hosted by a rotating team of presenters, the show covers both local and international sports, with a focus on storytelling and cultural connection.
All programs are available at 4eb.org.au/sportsvibe.
Volunteers represent communities including Samoan, Filipino, Latin American, Slovak and Papua New Guinean. The newsroom’s content is designed to be translated into multiple languages, ensuring accessibility for Brisbane’s diverse population.
Radio 4EB’s Sports Newsroom is more than a media project. It is a platform for community engagement and cultural expression. Aspiring broadcasters are encouraged to get involved.
For more information or to listen live, visit the Radio 4EB website or tune in to 98.1 FM.
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